Top 5 Mountain Biking Trails in Lake Tahoe
The trails are tacky and the lifts are spinning at Northstar. Whether you are yearning for a day of downhill at the resort, or are wanting to explore some of California’s most beautiful trails on two wheels, Lake Tahoe is a mountain biker’s dream. This mountain biking mecca offers endless miles with some of the best views in the world. Not sure where to start? Whether you are a beginner, experienced intermediate rider, or an expert, we’ll send you along our favorite trails in the area.
Plenty of Beginner Terrain:
While Tahoe is certainly known for the epic riding and endless miles of trails, it’s also a great place to learn. If you are looking to rent a bike when you get to town, head to the Bike Shop in the Village. From the bike shop, you can head right up the Easy Rider trail, which begins just outside of the Village. Remember, look where you want to ride, instead of focusing on obstacles, and be patient with yourself. After a few hours of playing around on your bike and exploring the trails, head over to Bite and try the seared ahi sliders.
Endless Miles of Classic Intermediate Trails:
Many agree that the best way to see the jewel of the sierra is by bike. The Tahoe Rim Trail is a 168 loop that offers some of the best views of the lake. Not sure you’re feeling a 165 mile ride this trip? Fair enough! There are several great out and back rides along different sections of this trail.
If you only had time for one ride in Lake Tahoe, we’d recommend riding the Tahoe Flume Trail. You’ll get a mix of tacky trail, granite, and shaded forest on this 24.6 mile ride. While the riding is certainly playful and loamy and pleasurable, what really makes this trail stand out are the views. Bring a camera and take your time to properly enjoy this California classic.
After your ride, head over to Alibi Ale Works in Incline Village to re-hydrate. This craft brewery and tap room literally capitalizes on the Lake Tahoe magic, and adds it to their core brews. Whether you try their Creamy Coconut IPA or one of their porters, you can be sure to have a wide selection that rotates weekly.
Northstar Bike Park is a Freeriders Dream:
In the last few years Northstar has grown to be a bucket list bike park for freeriders. Home to the Specialized Bike Academy, many come to Northstar for the clinics and coaching. The amenities, rentals and clinics are great, but the trails are world class. Expert riders will love riding the Gypsy trail and Sticks and Stones.
Remember, just because you’re riding lift laps all day doesn’t mean that you aren’t working hard. You need to fuel up before you ride downhill! Millennial or not, the avocado toast on multigrain bread with perfectly poached eggs from Manzanita is the ideal way to start a long day of riding.
Stay for the Weekend
Can’t choose just one trail to ride? Fantastic! Make a weekend trip out of your visit! Whether you plan to stay at the Ritz Carlton at the base of Northstar, or rent an adorable Airbnb in Incline Village, give yourself a few days to explore the area. Bike hard, eat well, and take a dip in that beautiful (and chillingly refreshing!) blue lake.
Lake Tahoe is one of our favorite mountain towns, and we are looking forward to helping you out this winter. Want to read about how we have served others? Here are some reviews! Enjoy your summer, and we’ll see you on the slopes in a few months.
